Kiko Alonso Suffers "Significant" Injury

Orchard Park, NY (WBEN / release) -- The Buffalo Bills may be without last season's breakout star this season.

Bills GM Doug Whaley released the following statement on Tuesday:

"We have learned tonight that Kiko Alonso injured his knee while working out in Oregon. We do not have the details at this point, but early indications are that it may be significant."

ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting the injury is a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), which likely would mean Alonso is lost for the upcoming season. The injury normally requires seven to nine months recovery.

Alonso was an NFL defensive rookie of the year contender last season after being drafted Buffalo in the second round out of Oregon. He led Buffalo with 159 tackles, two fumble recoveries and tied for the team lead with four interceptions while barely missing a snap in playing all 16 games.

Alonso had hip surgery this offseason, which limited him in participating in spring practices.

After playing in the middle last season, Alonso was moving to the outside linebacker spot as part of the Bills' shift to a 4-3 defensive scheme under new coordinator Jim Schwartz.